Executive Director

Emily is the Executive Director of Shining Mountains Montessori School. Emily leads with a Bachelor’s of Sociology and Pre-Health and an MACTE-accredited Children’s House certification from the Prepared Montessorian Institute. In her current role, she oversees all operations and leads efforts to expand programming to benefit more families. Emily loves helping both students and teachers by creating strong, connected learning environments. 

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her seven-year-old son and is involved in nonprofit and advocacy work supporting kids with medical needs and disabilities. She loves living in Chaffee County and Buena Vista, spending time outside, and being part of the close-knit community that makes the area so special.

Director

As the Director of Shining Mountains Montessori School, Kirsten leads with a commitment to operational excellence and the Montessori philosophy. A Colorado native and former Montessori student, Kirsten brings a blend of traditional education and specialized pedagogical training to her role. She holds a B.S. from Fort Lewis College and a K-12 teaching license and has furthered her education with an MACTE-accredited Children’s House certification from the Prepared Montessorian Institute. With extensive leadership experience as a former Program Director at Purgatory Resort, Kirsten is uniquely skilled at fostering curiosity and independence in children and staff alike.

Outside of work, she enjoys mountain biking and exploring the Arkansas River Valley with her two long-haired dachshunds, embracing the vibrant community she serves.

Founder & Expansion Director

Lisa is the Founder and Expansion Director of SMMS. Originally from Germany, she has 18 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. After earning her B.A. and AMS Early Childhood credential, she dedicated seven years to Salida Montessori Charter School (Chaffee County Montessori School) before founding SMMS in 2022. Lisa is now combining her teacher-guide roots with systemic advocacy by completing an AMI Assistant to Infancy Diploma and a Master’s in ECE Policy.

Outside of work, she enjoys life with her partner, Kirt, and their furkids. She loves refinishing child-sized furniture and gaining new perspectives through solo adventuring. Lisa draws inspiration from diverse cultures, the childlike spirit of strangers, and the Fibonacci spirals in nature's designs while exploring local or distant paths.

Lead Guide & Assistant Director

Stephanie Fowler brings a decade of heart-led experience to SMMS, having taught children from preschool through second grade in both Montessori and traditional settings. With a background in Anthropology, Stephanie felt a profound connection to Maria Montessori’s scientific roots, inspiring her to earn her Montessori Early Childhood (3-6) Credential from MECR. Her journey led her from the mountains of Edwards to Salida—where she first taught alongside Lisa Lamb—and eventually to Oregon, where she completed her Master’s in Education. Now back in Buena Vista, Stephanie is rediscovering her Montessori spirit while gracefully balancing life with her two young children.

When away from work, Stephanie finds her soul most alive in the mountains, whether she is trail running, gravel biking, or baking sourdough bread for her family.

Assistant Guide

Coleen joined the SMMS community following a distinguished 40-year career in Human Resources with Target Stores and the City of Lakewood. After retiring to fulfill a lifelong dream of mountain living, she brings a wealth of wisdom and a deep appreciation for the Montessori philosophy, having raised two Montessori daughters alongside her husband, Steve. Her journey has been a vibrant adventure, from the high-energy world of English hunter jumpers to a newfound passion for healing herbs and beekeeping. She believes that children are our most profound teachers, constantly grounding us in the world’s awe and wonder.

Coleen finds great joy in supporting SMMS, embracing the beauty of the Arkansas River Valley and the boundless curiosity of every child she meets.

Assistant Guide

Emma Rodman, a lifelong resident of Buena Vista, feels heartened by the vibrant growth of her hometown. With a decade of childcare experience and a specialized focus on infants and toddlers since 2022, Emma is honored to begin her formal early childhood education journey with the families of Shining Mountains Montessori. She brings a creative and nurturing presence to our team, valuing the unique personality and potential of every child in her care.

An artist at heart, Emma enjoys painting, reading, and writing when she isn’t in the classroom. Her local roots and dedication to the youngest members of our community make her a wonderful addition to our mission of fostering independence and joy in the Arkansas River Valley.

The best guinea pig friend there ever was. Our ultimate Kindness hero. Long live, Hams!